Program Overview
Deepen Your Spanish and Explore Liberal Arts in Barcelona!
Our Liberal Arts in Advanced Spanish program in Barcelona, Spain, available for both a semester and an academic year, is designed for students who have reached an advanced level of Spanish and wish to further immerse themselves in the language while exploring a broad range of liberal arts subjects. Set in the vibrant and culturally diverse city of Barcelona, this program offers a unique opportunity to combine intensive language study with a deep dive into the arts, humanities, and social sciences.
Highlights:
- Advanced Spanish Instruction: Tailor your learning with advanced courses in Spanish language, literature, and culture, aimed at enhancing your fluency and understanding of complex linguistic and cultural nuances.
- Diverse Liberal Arts Curriculum: Explore subjects such as Catalan history, Spanish politics, Mediterranean art, and more, all from the perspective of your host city and country.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience the rich cultural tapestry of Barcelona through guided tours, museum visits, theater performances, and interactions with local students and academics.
Barcelona, with its unique blend of historical richness, architectural marvels, and contemporary vibrancy, provides an ideal backdrop for advanced Spanish studies. The city’s status as a cultural, political, and social hub in Catalonia and Spain offers students unparalleled resources for academic and personal growth.
Embark on a journey of linguistic and cultural discovery in Barcelona, where advanced Spanish skills open doors to a deeper understanding of liberal arts within a Spanish and Catalan context. Whether you’re there for a semester or an entire academic year, this program promises a transformative educational experience in one of Spain’s most iconic cities.
Program Details
Program Availability
- Spring: January - March, 2024
- Fall: September - December, 2024
- Academic Year: September - March, 2024
Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 GPA overall
- GPA: 3.0 GPA in Spanish coursework
- *Must be a junior or senior undergrad.
- *B1 level (or higher) on SSA test recommended
- *Have completed 2 semesters of advanced Spanish
- *We advise you to take a language course (optional)
Inclusions
- Courses at Universidad Pompeu Fabra
- Classes taught uniquely in Spanish or Catalan
- 12-18 credits per semester
- Accommodation in residence halls or homestays
- All meals included (*additional cost in residence)
- Frequent excursions and travel opportunities
- Small class sizes for personalized attention
- Local speaking partners
- Spanish courses: intensives available in all levels
Fees
- Starting at: $15,500
Life Abroad
Discover more!
Artistic Hub
Barcelona’s artistic vibrancy is a breathtaking fusion of past and future, where the architectural and surreal wonders of Gaudí and Dalí coexist with cutting-edge contemporary galleries. Its streets and plazas, alive with dynamic street art, offer an immersive cultural experience, positioning the city as a sanctuary for creatives and art enthusiasts alike.
Culinary Delicacies
The culinary landscape of Barcelona is a sensorial celebration, presenting an array of dishes that encapsulate the essence of Catalan flavors. From traditional favorites like paella and tapas to avant-garde offerings found in its lively food markets, students can embark on a delectable journey through Catalonia’s culinary heritage.
Language and Culture
In Barcelona, the melodious tones of Catalan enhance the multicultural tapestry alongside Spanish, offering students a vibrant linguistic immersion. Engaging in language exchanges and embracing daily cultural interactions foster a deep connection with Barcelona’s diverse identity, broadening students’ linguistic skills and cultural understanding.
Life in Barcelona
Living in Barcelona is to immerse oneself in a lifestyle marked by diversity and cosmopolitanism. Whether it’s participating in the rich traditions of local festivals like La Mercè or finding tranquility along its picturesque beaches, Barcelona offers a harmonious blend of academic advancement, cultural depth, and memorable moments. 🇪🇸✨
Your semester in Barcelona is an expansive journey beyond academics, delving into the heart of Catalan and Spanish culture. Our curated selection of cultural activities and excursions, organized by us or recommended for personal exploration, aims to deepen your connection to this vibrant community. Below is an overview of the cultural odyssey that awaits you:
Cultural Activities Organized by the SSA Barcelona Team:
- Culinary Delights: A welcoming dinner featuring local specialties like paella and traditional Spanish tapas.
- Guided Cultural Visits: Tours to iconic sites including Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, Park Güell, and Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres.
- Dance Workshops: Flamenco and sardana workshops to immerse you in local traditions.
- Cooking Workshops: Hands-on experience preparing Catalan dishes.
- Cultural Events: Celebrate holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving with a local twist. Participate in language exchanges showcasing Spanish cinema.
- Architectural Exploration: Guided explorations from Gothic roots to modernist landmarks by Gaudí.
- New Activities: Engage in diverse workshops such as ceramics, self-defense classes, and CV building.
Recommended Activities for Personal Exploration:
- Tour Modernista: Discover Barcelona’s modernist architecture on your own.
- Chocolatada con Churros + Paseo: Embark on a leisurely walk paired with churros and hot chocolate.
- Calçotada Event Experience: Join local festivals featuring ‘calçotadas’, a traditional Catalan meal.
Recommended Day Trips & Beyond:
(While not organized by us, these are highly recommended experiences.)
- Explore Catalonia’s richness through trips to Montserrat for its spiritual serenity; Figueres for Salvador Dalí’s surreal art; Tarragona’s ancient Roman ruins; and more adventures in Sitges, Ampuries Ruins, L’Escala, Blanes, Girona. Additionally, venture beyond to the Balearic Islands, south France, or the microstate of Andorra.
Please note that while most organized activities are included in your program fee, some personal explorations may incur additional costs. Availability may vary depending on program timing.
This broad array of cultural experiences ensures you’ll fully embrace life in Barcelona as part of its dynamic fabric.
Catalonia's Cultural Tapestry and Barcelona's Role
The Heart of Catalan Literature
- Book-Loving Barcelona: Catalonia, with its capital in Barcelona, treasures the art of reading. This enduring love is evident in the city’s numerous libraries and bookstores, serving as key cultural hubs.
- Sant Jordi’s Day Celebration: Celebrating love and literature, Sant Jordi’s Day is akin to Valentine’s Day in Catalonia. People exchange roses and books—a tradition that deeply symbolizes the region’s literary heritage.
Unique Catalan Traditions
Catalonia’s cultural tapestry is vibrant and unique, deeply enriched by a variety of traditions that celebrate community, bravery, and artistic expression. Here are some of the most cherished Catalan traditions:
Castells: Marvel at the human towers—”castells”—a symbol of teamwork and courage as people create towering structures by standing atop one another.
Correfocs: Experience the fiery “correfocs” parades during festivals, where participants dressed as devils run through the streets wielding fireworks—a vivid display of energy and color.
Sardanes: Join in the circle to dance the “sardana”, a traditional Catalan dance signifying unity and community as dancers hold hands and move in harmony to music.
La Diada de Sant Jordi: Celebrate love and literature on April 23rd with La Diada de Sant Jordi, when Catalans exchange roses and books—akin to Valentine’s Day but with a literary twist.
Caga Tió: Embrace the whimsical Christmas tradition of “Caga Tió”, where children hit a decorated log that ‘defecates’ small gifts.
La Patum: Witness La Patum in Berga, an event acknowledged by UNESCO for its mix of religious, pagan elements along with theatrical performances, music, and dance.
Els Pastorets: Delight in “Els Pastorets”, traditional plays recounting the nativity story—a staple during the Christmas season.
Castanyada: Indulge in “Castanyada” festivities on All Saints’ Day, savoring roasted chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and “panellets”, small almond-based pastries.
Gegants i Capgrossos: Behold “Gegants i Capgrossos” processions featuring large figures parading down streets representing historical or mythical characters.
El Ball de Gitanes: Experience “El Ball de Gitanes”, a traditional dance performed during local celebrations wearing vibrant costumes with coordinated choreography.
These rich traditions not only mirror Catalonia’s diverse cultural heritage but also strengthen its distinct identity within Spain.
Diversity in Barcelona
Barcelona stands out as Spain’s most international, cosmopolitan, and intercultural city. Here, social and intercultural assistance is not just an initiative but an integral part of community life. Numerous organizations and programs are committed to fostering inclusion, equality, and mutual understanding among the city’s diverse communities. Key areas of action include:
Integration Programs: Barcelona offers programs aimed at integrating individuals from varied cultures and backgrounds into society—ranging from language classes to cultural activities that encourage interaction and mutual understanding.
Support for Refugees and Migrants: Various non-profit organizations and government agencies in Barcelona dedicate resources to supporting refugees and migrants through legal advice, housing assistance, and cultural integration programs.
Multicultural Education: Educational institutions in Barcelona champion multicultural education by including curricula that reflect cultural diversity and promoting intercultural understanding among students.
Community Events and Celebrations: The city hosts events and celebrations that spotlight its cultural diversity. These festivities serve as platforms for cultural exchange and community bonding.
NGOs and Volunteering: A multitude of NGOs operate in Barcelona, tackling social and intercultural issues. Volunteering plays a critical role in running programs aimed at enhancing quality of life and fostering community understanding.
Intercultural Meeting Spaces: Barcelona is home to spaces designed for intercultural meetings where people from varied backgrounds can share experiences and build bridges of understanding.
Community Empowerment: Initiatives are undertaken to empower local communities by providing necessary tools for active participation in the city’s social and economic life.
In summary, Barcelona endeavors to be an inclusive, supportive city where social and intercultural support acts are essential in forming a diverse yet unified community. These efforts contribute to creating an environment where individuals from various backgrounds can thrive, enriching the city’s social fabric.
Meet your Resident Director
Guiding Your Journey: Embracing Barcelona with SSA
At SSA Barcelona, we recognize the challenge of transitioning from a small town or city to the bustling metropolis of Barcelona. To transform this vibrant city into your new home, our team focuses on proactive guidance and support, emphasizing active engagement over passive observation.
Emphasizing Student Over Tourist: From day one, we actively differentiate between being a tourist and becoming an international student. Through orientation sessions and ongoing support, we provide an integrative perspective that encourages you to understand and engage with the local culture, duties, and societal obligations. Our aim is not just to navigate away from the tourist lifestyle but to cultivate a meaningful sense of belonging in Barcelona.
Cultural Integration Activities: We facilitate various activities designed to immerse you deeply into both the spectacular diversity and daily life of Barcelona. From guided tours that avoid typical tourist trails to language exchange programs that foster genuine connections with locals, our activities are tailored to promote your transition into a fully engaged citizen of this dynamic city.
Personalized Support: Recognizing the potential overwhelm that comes with city life’s fast pace, noise, and pollution—especially for those from quieter backgrounds—we offer personalized support. Our team is here not just to guide but also to listen, providing comfort and advice as you navigate this new environment.
By focusing on these actions, SSA ensures that your study abroad experience is far more than academic enrichment; it’s about transformational personal growth within Barcelona’s cosmopolitan setting. We invite you to join us in embracing every aspect of living in Barcelona—turning what might initially appear overwhelming into an enriching chapter of your life.
The Barcelona team with their students
Commonly-Used Team Quotes to Inspire and Motivate Their Students
- "Don't be driven by fear; be guided by awareness."
- "Fulfilling your dreams may not be as easy as believing in them, but with time and effort, you can achieve them."
- "If you're not taking action, it's simply because you don't want to. Barcelona offers countless opportunities for anyone who lands here."
- "You're here now, expanding your comfort zone."
Students may select to live with a local host family or in a student residence.
Student Residences
Students interested in the cosmopolitan experience of a student residence can opt for one in Barcelona. The city is a popular destination for international students and those from other parts of Spain, offering several private student residences throughout the city. These residences are typically centrally located, providing easy access to attractions and the city center. They also offer a diverse mix of students, creating unique social opportunities.
Please note that due to high demand, SSA cannot always guarantee placement at a specific student residence. Prices can vary, and supplemental charges are required in addition to program costs as meals are not included. If you’re interested in staying in a student residence, it’s essential to inform us as soon as possible to secure your place, which may involve paying a deposit. SSA carefully vets all student residence options to ensure safety, cleanliness, and convenient locations.
Homestays
Students have the option to immerse themselves fully in Barcelona’s diverse and cosmopolitan life by choosing to live with a host family. Homestays offer not just room and board, which includes breakfast and dinner, but also laundry and room cleaning services. Should you have specific dietary or accommodation needs, we’re able to make arrangements, though this may incur an additional fee.
Living with a host family in Barcelona opens up the inspiring opportunity to delve into local customs, language, and the everyday rhythms of city life. It’s an unparalleled experience of receiving personal support and insight from your hosts. Our host families come from a variety of backgrounds reflecting Barcelona’s richly diverse character—not limited solely to traditional local profiles. This ensures that whether you’re seeking a deeply authentic experience or a multicultural exchange, opting for a homestay can enrich your stay with genuine connections to our community. If you’re drawn towards an intimate living situation and wish to forge deeper bonds within the local or international community here, choosing a homestay in Barcelona is undoubtedly a rewarding path.
Academics
Course Selection
The available courses for students vary by program and are distributed between the SSA center and local universities. Please see the selection below, and contact us for the most current course information:
Language Options & Internships
Subject
Course
Courses
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 402UPF – SPANISH FOR HERITAGE SPEAKERS
INT 490UPF – INTERNSHIP ADD-ON
SPAN 309UPF – PROFICIENCY IN SPANISH LANGUAGE
SPAN 300UPF – ADVANCED SPANISH LANGUAGE
Universitat Pompeu Fabra
Academic Institutions
Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) is a dynamic and innovative educational institution, recognized for its excellence in academia and research. Located in the heart of Barcelona, UPF is known for its strong emphasis on social sciences, humanities, health and life sciences, and communication and information technologies.
Established in 1990, UPF has quickly gained a reputation for its commitment to quality education, consistently ranking among the top universities in Europe. It boasts a diverse community of around 13,000 students and a distinguished faculty committed to fostering a rigorous and enriching learning environment.
Renowned for its interdisciplinary approach and international outlook, UPF has received numerous accolades, including a prominent position in the Times Higher Education (THE) Young University Rankings. The university’s modern facilities, combined with its vibrant urban setting, offer students a unique and comprehensive academic experience.
Why This Program?
The Liberal Arts in Advanced Spanish Program in Barcelona, Spain, for a semester or academic year, is designed for students who wish to deepen their Spanish language proficiency while engaging in a comprehensive study of the liberal arts. Set in the culturally rich and vibrant city of Barcelona, this program offers an immersive experience that combines advanced Spanish language courses with a wide range of subjects taught in Spanish, from literature and history to art and politics, all within the context of Spain’s diverse cultural heritage.
📚 Advanced Spanish Language and Literature:
- Intensive Language Courses: Focus on perfecting Spanish language skills with advanced grammar, conversation, and composition classes.
- Spanish Literature and Culture: Explore the depths of Spanish and Catalan literature, history, and culture through courses that delve into the region's rich artistic and historical contributions.
🌍 Cultural and Academic Immersion:
- Direct Enrollment: Take courses alongside local students at Barcelona's prestigious universities, fully integrating into the Spanish academic community.
- Local Cultural Studies: Engage with Barcelona's unique identity through studies that highlight its Catalan culture, art, and political landscape.
💡 Personal Growth and Language Mastery:
- Fluency and Proficiency: Achieve a near-native level of Spanish fluency, enhancing your academic and professional prospects.
- Cultural Competence: Gain a deep understanding of Spanish and Catalan cultures, fostering a nuanced perspective on global and regional issues.
☀️ Enriching Experiences in Barcelona:
- Explore Architectural Marvels: Discover Barcelona's architectural wonders, from Gaudí's Sagrada Familia to the Gothic Quarter, enriching your cultural appreciation.
- Immersive Living: Live and study in one of Europe's most dynamic cities, experiencing its world-renowned cuisine, vibrant street life, and lively festivals, making your time abroad truly unforgettable.
This program is an excellent choice for students committed to achieving excellence in Spanish language and cultural studies, offering a challenging yet rewarding academic journey in one of Spain’s most fascinating cities.
Dates & Fees
Term
Deadline
Start Date
End Date
Fee
Application
Important Links
Summary
Requirements
- GPA: 3.0 GPA overall
- GPA: 3.0 GPA in Spanish coursework
- *Must be a junior or senior undergrad.
- *B1 level (or higher) on SSA test recommended
- *Have completed 2 semesters of advanced Spanish
- *We advise you to take a language course (optional)
Program Summary
- Spring: January - March, 2024
- Fall: September - December, 2024
- Academic Year: September - March, 2024
- Courses at Universidad Pompeu Fabra
- Classes taught uniquely in Spanish or Catalan
- 12-18 credits per semester
- Accommodation in residence halls or homestays
- All meals included (homestays only)
- Frequent excursions and travel opportunities
- Small class sizes for personalized attention
- Local speaking partners
- Spanish courses: intensives available in all levels
What does the fee include?
- Tuition fees
- Room & board
- Study tours
- Health insurance
- On-site support
- Health & Safety
- Transcripts
- Excursions
- Local activities
- Starting at: $15,500
More Programs
Useful Links
Short-Term Programs in Barcelona
Semester/Year Programs in Barcelona
All Liberal Arts in Advanced Spanish Programs
- Seville, Spain | Liberal Arts in Advanced Spanish
- Havana, Cuba | Liberal Arts in Advanced Spanish
- Alicante, Spain | Liberal Arts in Advanced Spanish
- Barcelona, Spain | Liberal Arts in Advanced Spanish
- Córdoba, Argentina | Liberal Arts in Advanced Spanish
- San Juan, Puerto Rico | Liberal Arts in Advanced Spanish